We all hit a point where books we used to love suddenly seem juvenile. Sure, I love my fair share of John Green -- he's a great guy! But at age 20, it is time to start conversing on real literature. You need to find books that are going to inspire you as you head into the best decade of your life, but also offer something of substance. You want to be impressive with your reading material, but still enjoy what you're reading! Here are some suggestions for books (novels, biographies, and poetry alike!) to launch you into your 20's.
1. "Yes, Please" by Amy Poehler
“I think we should stop asking people in their twenties what they “want to do” and start asking them what they don’t want to do.”
While yes, a portion of this book is dedicated to her acting and comedic career, Amy Poehler's book offers far more advice on how to be an outstanding person and live your life to its absolute fullest.
2. "The Secret History of Wonder Woman" by Jill Lepore
“Frankly, Wonder Woman is psychological propaganda for the new type of woman who should, I believe, rule the world.”
If you consider yourself a feminist, then this book will not only educate but enlighten. This book is not just an origin story, but a recount of how America's most popular superhero, Wonder Woman, came out of the most important women's movements of her time.
3. "All the Light We Cannot See" by Anthony Doerr
“Open your eyes and see what you can with them before they close forever.”
We've all read a book about World War II. This takes a step up from that, with all of the historical intrigue combined with the magic of a beautifully crafted story and two of the most captivating characters of this century. It didn't win the Pulitzer Prize for nothing.
4. "Selected Poems" by E.E. Cummings
"(with a spin leap alive we're alive) we're wonderful one times one."
E.E. Cummings is very much a young person's poet. His structure is edgy and unconventional; everything a 20-year-old loves. His poetry will dazzle you.
5. "Emma" by Jane Austen
"I always deserve the best treatment because I never put up with any other.”
The story of a young woman who decides she knows everything. Who can't relate? Reading Jane Austen in your lifetime is a must. (Not to mention, it will greatly improve your vocabulary.)
6. "Economix" by Michael Goodwin
“Every man is, no doubt, by nature, first and principally recommended to his own care.”
At a certain age, you have to learn how the economy works. This book explains it cleverly, simply and with comics!
7. "The Casual Vacancy" by J.K. Rowling
“You must accept the reality of other people. You think that reality is up for negotiation, that we think it's whatever you say it is. You must accept that we are as real as you are; you must accept that you are not God.”
From the author of your favorite childhood series comes a novel you can enjoy now that you're older and wiser.
8. "The Shining" by Stephen King
“Sometimes human places, create inhuman monsters.”
You've probably seen the movie. You've heard tons about it. This is the time. This is your moment to finally read this book (as long as you're not still scared).
9. "The Marriage Plot" by Jeffrey Eugenides
"The smarter you were, the worse it was. The sharper your brain, the more it cut you up.”
A fascinating story of college graduates entering the real world, and what it means to question it. This novel embraces moments we all go through in our 20's.
10. "The Bell Jar" by Sylvia Plath
“If you expect nothing from anybody, you’re never disappointed.”
This book is banned in many high schools, so now that you're out of there, it is time you read this book. One day, it will be embarrassing if you haven't.
11. "The Glass Castle" by Jeannette Walls
“You should never hate anyone, even your worst enemies."
This story, and the two that follow it are perhaps the most beautiful and honest ones out there. Jeannette Walls' recount of her mother's childhood is always at the top of my recommendation's list and is perfect for young people just starting to appreciate the generations that came before us.
12. "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt
“There is nothing wrong with the love of Beauty. But Beauty -- unless she is wed to something more meaningful -- is always superficial.”
I cannot tell you how many college students I have heard profess their love of this book. A chilling tale about college and murder -- it's perfect!
13. "The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood
“Don't let the bastards grind you down.”
It's like "The Hunger Games," but for adults!
14. "I Am the Messenger" by Markus Zusak
“Maybe everyone can live beyond what they're capable of.”
I'm sure most of us had to read Zusak's other acclaimed novel "The Book Thief" in high school. This book, filled with glorious Australian sarcasm, is both uplifting and eye-opening. It makes you reconsider the type of person you want to be as you grow up, and I'm positive it will push you in the right direction.
15. "I Am Malala" by Malala Yousafzai
“We realize the importance of our voices only when we are silenced.”
This woman is the next great leader of our generation. She is going to change the world, so you should read her book and get on board.
16. "Life of Pi" by Yann Martel
“To choose doubt as a philosophy of life is akin to choosing immobility as a means of transportation.”
It is not good enough to watch the movie. This book is vibrant with history, so be prepared to learn something.
17. "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett
"We are just two people. Not that much separates us. Not nearly as much as I'd thought.”
By age 30, you might not have time to read this book, and that is the last thing you want to happen. "The Help" is an important story that everyone in the world needs to read in order to begin truly understanding one another, and the sooner you do that, the better.
18. "Gone Girl" by Gillian Flynn
"Go ahead, shit on me, I don’t mind, I’m the Cool Girl."
This is the definition of a page-turner. I am absolutely convinced this will be a defining novel for this decade in the future and will be remembered for years to come, so get on the "Gone Girl" train!
19. "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame" by Victor Hugo
“When you get an idea into your head you find it in everything.”
If you love the happiness of the Disney movie, then I would say proceed with caution. However, as far as classic novels go, Victor Hugo just may be the king and this is one of his jewels (and it's shorter than "Les Miserables").
20. "The Art of Racing in the Rain" by Garth Stein
“There is no dishonor in losing the race. There is only dishonor in not racing because you are afraid to lose.”
It's from the point of view of a dog! That's so cute! How can you resist?
